"Ask the Rabbi" by R. Mermelstein
QUESTION: Dear Rabbi Mermelstein:
I have a 3 part question:
First: is concealed to mean/interpreted as, totally out of sight or is
a partial concealment viewed as in plain sight? I have several 1911
style pistols, where I utilize the "clip-draw" systems for carry. This
method exposes part of the grip frame, around the back on top of my
belt. Sometimes I my carry in the front, similarly to a cross draw,
depending on pants style I use. Depending on weather, I do not wear a
jacket or coat. Otherwise I know they are concealed. I am a permit
holder in NC, and a JFPO member.
Secondly; Can NFA weapons considered as concealable?? I recognize the
problems with law enforcement's "interpretations" of laws vs.
enforcement. Comments are appreciated.
Third and last; I understand there is a "Israeli draw" style, where an
automatic is carried with out a round chambered and at the point of
draw, the slide is operated for loading and fire. Is this true, and how
practical is this without some practice??
Thanks for you time and efforts. I am enjoying the info and support the cause as a Christian.
Thanks again,
Thomas Rhyne
15 Jun 1999
ANSWER: Dear Mr. Rhyne,
1) Definition of concealment is totally up to the constabulary where you reside. There is no boilerplate definition.
2) NFA 1934 made licensing mandatory for rifles with barrels shorter
than 16" and shotguns with barrels shorter than 18". It's clear that
concealability was the primary concern.
3) I've read a great deal about this carry practice, and I've even met
the two young fellows that teach the method, here, in Southern
California. A sufficient number of true experts in the field of armed
self defense have condemned this technique in the most unambiguous
language. I side with this majority. The 1911 pistol was designed to be
carried with a round in the chamber. So was John M. Browning's last
design, the Hi Power single action pistol. Any handgun shooter worth a
hoot knows not to insert a finger into the trigger guard unless he
intends to fire the weapon. "Trigger boots", or any screw-on device to
increase the surface area of the trigger face, are more dangerous than
a coiled diamondback rattler. They extend the trigger beyond the sides
of the trigger guard and can cause the piece to discharge while
holstering. Safeties are nice, but are never to be relied upon. Either
the 1911 with a grip safety or the Hi Power without one, citizens and
peace officers the world over have carried both models "cocked and
locked" every day for years without an accidental discharge. Training
and an alert mind are everything.
Sincerely,
R. Mermelstein
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